Texas 19 - Day 2

Early start today as we were going over on the Ferry to the Bolivar Peninsular. then on to Smith Oaks, High Island to try for the FORK-TAILED FLYCATCHER.

Lorna had a few issues getting out of her campsite, so we were 30 minutes late arriving at the Ferry...

A great memory of Clyde

Further delays as we just missed one which meant another 20 minute delay. Halfway up the peninsular we hit major roadworks, more delays! Never mind.

Unfortunately when we arrived at the car park at Smith Oaks we were informed the bird had flown off some 10 minutes ago!!! Surprisingly (at least to me) it wasn't seen again. Gutted for Lorna as it would have been a Lifer for her. I'd seen one some years ago at the appropriately named Southernmost reserve on the Mexican border. We did manage a fine Yellow-billed Cuckoo...

...a Black-billed was also present but it eluded us. We moved on to the famous Rookery as Lorna hadn't been before. It is a truly memorable sight with thousands of nesting Egrets and Spoonbills present...

Great Egret

Roseate Spoonbill

Lurking in the background was an American Purple Gallinule...

 



I thought that was my lot and then I looked down below the viewpoint and...

We then decided to make the journey to Sabine Woods hoping the stunning male Black-throated Blue Warbler would still be present. It was (although no-one had reported it). This time Lorna DID get her Lifer!

Just glad to grab some kind of image of this constantly moving bird. A true beauty!

Lorna then showed us a couple of other spots, Sea Rim and McFadden. Little of note was seen but hundreds of migrating Tree Swallows were a fine sight...

Out with Lorna again this morning but less driving. Starting at Lafitte's again...

Trip Total 69